News bulletin 2022/12/12 21:18

SWNS

Three boys are dead after falling into a frozen lake

Police confirmed three boys aged 12, 11 and 8 died after falling into the freezing lake.

A West Midlands Police spokesman said: “Three boys tragically died yesterday afternoon (December 11) after falling into the lake at Babbs Mill Park in Solihull.

“The boys, aged 12, 11 and 8, were taken to hospital after being pulled from the water.

“Unfortunately, they could not be resuscitated and our thoughts are with their family and friends at this deeply devastating time.

“We will have specialized officials who will offer them as much support as possible.

“A fourth boy, aged 6, remains in critical condition in hospital.

“We have been working with colleagues from the fire and rescue services to help those involved to the best of our ability.

“Searches of the lake continue as we try to determine exactly what happened and if there are any other people who have fallen into the water.

“We understand how distressing this is for families and the community.

“We would like to ask people not to speculate or share video footage at this time.”

Council I An Court, Chair of Solihull Council, added: “I cannot imagine what families are going through at the moment.

“We will do everything we can to support the families in this terrible situation.

“We are so stunned by what has happened and we must all work together to help those who have been affected.”

Tory MP Saqib Bhatti added: “We are all feeling the pain of this tragedy and will continue to do so for a number of months and years to come.

“As far as I know, they were looking [for others]given the way it happened, they had to see if anyone else was there.

“I heard the tragic news last night. It’s hard to put into words. I know how close the community is.

“I have a young child and I hugged her a little close last night. My heart beats for the community. I’m very emotional.”

Solihull Council Deputy Karen Grissel said: “The news came yesterday afternoon and we have been staying in touch with everyone.

“We didn’t want to come and disrupt the ongoing search and rescue operations.

“Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the youngsters.

“We have to thank the rescue services who were there immediately and the people who went into the water and also risked their lives.

“It’s going to have a huge impact on the community.

“We’ve already seen the community and there were a lot of people here yesterday, so we all have to pull together.”